ISLAMABAD: Pakistan expressed its disappointment on United Nations Security Council's inability to reach consensus on Palestine's full membership of United Nations, also regretting US decision to veto draft resolution.

"Pakistan is deeply disappointed by result of last night's debate at UNSC and its inability to reach consensus and recommend Palestine's membership to UNGA. We regret US decision to veto draft resolution granting full membership of UN to Palestine," Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said in her weekly press briefing.

Security Council blocked Palestine's bid to become full member of United Nations due to United States veto on widely-supported resolution that would have recommended granting of such status.

Proposal, submitted in 15-member Council by Algeria, received 12 votes in favour, with United States casting negative vote and Switzerland and United Kingdom abstaining.

Council resolution requires at least nine votes in favour and no vetoes from its five permanent members, China, France, Russia, United Kingdom and United States to pass.

"We believe, time has come for admission of Palestine to UN. This will be step towards correcting historic injustice suffered by Palestinians for over 75 years. It will affirm their right to self-determination," she remarked.

To question, she said upcoming OIC summit in Gambia would consider several proposals including those on Palestine, Jammu and Kashmir as well as Islamophobia.

Apprising media of diplomatic engagements during last week, she started with visit of Saudi delegation to accelerate discussions and enhance cooperation in follow-up of understanding reached between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud during former's recent visit to Kingdom.

Responding to query, spokesperson said statement by Indian external affairs minister on Kashmir was unfortunate as it was India that had taken Kashmir issue to United Nations.

She expressed dismay over Indian authorities' decision to prohibit observance of key religious events like Jumuatul Wida, Shab-e-Qadr and Eid-ul-Fitr at Srinagar Jamia Masjid.

To another question, spokesperson reiterated that Pakistan's repatriation policy was limited to illegal foreigners living in Pakistan and country has so far no plan to repatriate Afghan Citizen Card holders.

Published in The Daily National Courier, April, 20 2024

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